AYLA charity co-founder Scott Johnson’s long-time friend remembers his generous nature
A beloved Perth charity co-founder who helped thousands of vulnerable Australians in a crisis is being remembered as a generous person who “gave everything of himself to anyone who needed it”.
Scott Johnson was a key driver in the 2010 launch of Assisting Your Life to Achieve (AYLA), a Cockburn-based not-for-profit that expanded to help families access food, clothing and furniture, youth accommodation, emergency housing and other support services.
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“Scott gave everything of himself to anyone who needed it. He was a generous and fun-loving person,” she told 7NEWS.com.au.
“You couldn’t ask for a better person than that.”
Roach said Johnson’s difficult upbringing drove him to help others, turning “his trauma into such a wonderful thing”.
“He was the most generous soul on the planet. When he chose you, you became family. He made you feel loved,” Roach said.
“He was an absolute goose, but so genuine. He had an infectious smile and a big hug.
“He was so dedicated and had such a massive vision that it was hard to keep up.”
Roach said Johnson’s family, including husband David and three children, were still trying to make sense of their loss.
Planning for the service is underway and an announcement will be made once arrangements are locked in.
Roach said she had been overwhelmed and humbled by the influx of donations, which total more than $22,000.
“It just shows how many people he helped. I’m so proud of him and his achievements,” she said.
AYLA was founded in 2010, with the team working from a home in Banjup to deliver food and other necessities to the vulnerable.
It was officially registered with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission in 2016 and secured a suitable premises in Cockburn central in 2017.
As of July 2022, AYLA said it had helped 15,000 families with food, clothing and relief amounting to more than $1.1 million.
If you need help in a crisis, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. For further information about depression contact beyondblue on 1300224636 or talk to your GP, local health professional or someone you trust.
